FOUNDATION COURSE FOR AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH SERVICES

The FOCARS is a four month induction training program for entry level recruits to the Agricultural Research Services. Conceptualized and ideated by ICAR, it is conducted by one of its own umbrella organizations, NAARM(National Academy of Agricultural Research and Management) located at Hyderabad. It virtually emulates the model formulated by the Union Public Service Commission for Civil Services probationers, who undergo foundation training with a similar duration period   at the National Academy of Administration located at Mussoorie (Uttarakhand) in the salubrious climes of the Himalayan region.

The training program has been designed by NAARM to fulfill certain well defined objectives and the principle aim is to facilitate the smooth transition of an aspiring and young agricultural scientist from that of a novice to a  core professional, eventually grooming him/her into a national asset. The program has been encapsulated into independent modules, each of which is meant to represent a different facet and combine pedagogy with personal enrichment. Due emphasis has been laid on human aspects such as personality development, physical fitness, inter-personal relationships and communication with a view to sensitize young candidates and impart the requisite competence and integrity necessary to lead a life of health and vitality.

The delivery of the training program is done in a three phase format.

  Phase 1: Orientation and capacity building

  Phase 2: Field Experience Training

  Phase 3: Assessment & Evaluation

Reading material in the form of a 579 page document is supplied to each participant at the time of commencement. It is also available online on the NAARM website. The content comprises of all details pertaining to the Foundation Training Program.

References and Acknowledgements:

1. www.naarm.ernet.in

2. www.icar.org.in